Implementation of Islamic Content-Based Podcasts Integrated With Project-Based Learning (Pjbl) to Improve Students’ Speking Skills In English Language Learning

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of integrating Islamic content-based podcasts with Project-Based Learning (PjBL) to improve students’ speaking skills in English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The research was conducted at Universitas Muhammadiyah Enrekang in response to students’ low speaking performance, with average scores ranging only between 35–40%. The main challenges included lack of fluency, accuracy, and confidence, which were attributed to limited opportunities for contextual and meaningful speaking practice. A quasi-experimental design was employed involving two purposively selected groups: Primary School Teacher Education (PGSD) students as the control group and Guidance and Counseling (BK) students as the experimental group. The procedure consisted of preparation, pre-test, implementation of PjBL through the production of Islamic content-based podcasts, and post-test. Data were collected through individual speaking tests assessed across five aspects (fluency, pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and coherence) and analyzed using SPSS through normality testing, Independent Samples t-Test, and N-Gain analysis. The results revealed a significant improvement in the experimental group (M = 65.7, N-Gain = 0.62, medium–high) compared to the control group (M = 44.5, N-Gain = 0.18, low). The Independent Samples t-Test confirmed a statistically significant difference (t(58) = 4.72, p < 0.001). These findings indicate that Islamic content-based podcasts integrated with PjBL were effective in enhancing students’ fluency, accuracy, and confidence in speaking, while simultaneously promoting moral and spiritual values relevant to Islamic higher education.